Luke 11:4 And lead us not into temptation.
Temptation can come in many forms and in surprising ways. Temptation is unavoidable in a world full of idolatry and immorality, the two major temptations that the human race has faced since the beginning. Many things around us call for compromise. The journey on the narrow road of discipleship is not always easy, with many diversion paths that look enticing and easier but end up bringing ruin and pain. There is a link to prayer and avoiding temptation. In the garden in Gethsemane, Jesus told his sleepy disciples to stay alert and pray so they would not fall into temptation (22:40).
The prayer again recognizes God’s sovereignty and that God is able to protect us from temptations. The word for temptation (peirasmon) does not always mean temptation of sin but testing through trial. The translation of “temptation” is usually used here because of the previous reference to sin. God may lead us through trials and times of testing to purify us, make us stronger, or to discipline us to help us learn to avoid certain activities. Trials can be positive (see James 1:12; 1 Peter 4:12–13; Revelation 2:10), but that can be overwhelming to some people or in certain situations.
We need God’s help to endure times of testing. Because God is in control of all things, God can move people and situations so that we will not face certain challenges or temptations. By praying for this, we are seeking God’s favor and blessing. Jesus’ own time of testing in the wilderness (4:1-13) gives us the model of reliance upon God and God’s word to overcome adversity. God can give us strength and leadership through the Holy Spirit to guide and inspire us to make the right choices when we are facing a temptation that would otherwise lead us astray. Prayer is the key to stay in tuned and ready to listen.
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